The Landry Hat
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Dallas Cowboys’ Defense Relying on Coaching and Player Development

By Steve Miklosko

Jan 15, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli on the sidelines during the game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional playoff game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli on the sidelines during the game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional playoff game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 15, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli on the sidelines during the game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional playoff game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli on the sidelines during the game against the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional playoff game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

While the Cowboys will likely use the draft as a means to address some weaknesses, their biggest hopes in 2017 lie with defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli and the development of their players.

Marinelli is no stranger to coaching underwhelming rosters since joining the Dallas Cowboys. They have only used two first round picks on defensive players thus far this decade and have failed in risky investments.

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Defensive end Randy Gregory is currently suspended due to drug habits known before the Cowboys selected him in the second round of the draft.

Former free agent acquisition defensive end Greg Hardy was a locker-room distraction who hurt the team with his negative publicity. Dallas’ decision to trade two draft picks to acquire defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence hasn’t paid off so far due to injuries.

Despite the lack of star power, Marinelli has made the defense into a respectable unit since being promoted as its coordinator in 2014. Before his promotion, the Cowboys had one of the worst defenses in league history in 2013 (32nd in yards allowed). Since then the Cowboys have ranked within the top 17 teams in yards allowed and in 2016 were 5th in points allowed per game.

Dallas has seen the value Marinelli adds and are attempting to extend his contract with the team. He is one of the most respected coordinators in the league and is known for helping players reach their potential.

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